A client on a mental health unit develops flu-like symptoms and low blood pressure. After reviewing the client's history, it was noted that the client has a diagnosis of schizophrenia and is currently taking risperidone (Risperdal). The nurse should recognize that which of the following adverse effects may be occurring?

Neuroleptic malignant syndrome.

Tardive dyskinesia.

Acute dystonia.

Pseudoparkinsonism.

Answer and Explanation

The Correct Answer is A

Choice A rationale:

Neuroleptic malignant syndrome (NMS) is a potentially life-threatening condition that can occur as a severe adverse effect of antipsychotic medications, such as risperidone (Risperdal). Symptoms of NMS include flu-like symptoms (fever, muscle rigidity, and sweating) along with altered mental status, and autonomic dysregulation. It's crucial for the nurse to recognize this potentially fatal condition promptly and intervene appropriately.

Choice B rationale:

Tardive dyskinesia is a movement disorder that is often a result of long-term use of antipsychotic medications, but it is characterized by repetitive, involuntary movements of the face and other body parts. It doesn't typically present with flu-like symptoms or low blood pressure.

Choice C rationale:

Acute dystonia is characterized by involuntary muscle contractions and spasms, often involving the muscles of the face, neck, and back. It usually occurs shortly after starting antipsychotic treatment. While it can cause discomfort, it doesn't present with flu-like symptoms and low blood pressure as described in the scenario.

Choice D rationale:

Pseudoparkinsonism, also known as drug-induced parkinsonism, is characterized by symptoms similar to Parkinson's disease, such as tremors, bradykinesia (slowness of movement), and rigidity. It doesn't typically cause flu-like symptoms and low blood pressure.

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Correct Answer is C

Explanation

The correct answer is choice C: "I'm hearing that you are concerned that it might turn out that you have cancer."

Choice A rationale:

Dismissing the client's concerns and saying there's no reason to worry is not empathetic. It invalidates the client's feelings and does not address their anxiety.

Choice B rationale:

While discussing concerns with the provider is important, it's not the most therapeutic initial response. The nurse should engage with the client's feelings before suggesting actions.

Choice C rationale:

This is the correct choice. Reflecting the client's concerns back to them shows empathy and encourages them to express their feelings. This approach opens up communication and allows the nurse to provide support.

Choice D rationale:

Asking the client why they think they might have cancer could come across as confrontational and dismissive. The focus should be on understanding their feelings rather than challenging their thoughts.

A. "You need to tell the voices to leave you alone.” B. "You need to understand that there are no voices.” C. "What are the voices telling you to do?” D. "Why do you think you are hearing the voices?”

Correct Answer is C

Explanation

Choice A rationale:

Instructing the client to tell the voices to leave them alone oversimplifies the situation. It disregards the distress and lack of control that individuals with schizophrenia often experience when hearing voices. This response may also imply that the client has complete control over the voices, which is not accurate.

Choice B rationale:

Denying the existence of the voices contradicts the client's experience and could lead to further distrust between the client and nurse. Acknowledging the client's feelings and experiences is essential for building rapport and understanding in a therapeutic relationship.

Choice C rationale:

This response is appropriate because it acknowledges the client's experience and seeks to understand the content and nature of the voices. It demonstrates empathy and encourages open communication, which is crucial in providing effective care for individuals with schizophrenia.

Choice D rationale:

Asking the client why they think they are hearing the voices might be interpreted as confrontational or judgmental. It could make the client defensive and hinder open communication. Instead, focusing on the content of the voices allows the nurse to gain insight into the client's experiences without placing blame.

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Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams

A nurse is admitting a client who is about to undergo surgery for benign prostatic hypertrophy. The client states, "I don't know what I will do if they find that I have cancer." Which of the following should be the appropriate response by the nurse?

Correct Answer is C

Explanation

A nurse is talking with a client diagnosed with schizophrenia. Suddenly the client states, "I'm frightened. Do you hear that? The voices are telling me to do terrible things." Which of the following responses by the nurse is appropriate?

Correct Answer is C

Explanation

A nurse is caring for a child who has autism spectrum disorder. Which of the following findings should the nurse expect? (Select all that apply.).

A nurse in an acute mental health unit is admitting a client diagnosed with bipolar disorder. The nurse recognizes which of the following findings supports the admitting diagnosis of acute mania?

While in group therapy, a nurse is caring for a client who has cancer and is scheduled for immediate chemotherapy. The client tells the nurse that she wants to try nontraditional treatments first. Which of the following responses should the nurse make?

A male client is admitted to the unit with a possible diagnosis of delirium. Which statement by the client's wife best supports the diagnosis?

A nurse is taking care of an adult client who is experiencing increased anxiety and an inability to concentrate. Which of the following responses should the nurse make?

A nurse is assessing a client who is withdrawing from alcohol. Which of the following findings should the nurse expect? (Select all that apply).

A nurse is caring for a client who requires crisis intervention for acute anxiety. Which of the following nursing actions is the highest priority?